Your Title Isn’t Enough: Why Detailing Your Work History Matters
If you’re open to work, your LinkedIn profile and résumé are two of your most powerful tools. But here’s a common mistake I see all the time: people only list their job title without giving any real details about what they actually did.
The problem? A title doesn’t tell your story.
A “Coordinator” at one company might oversee a major budget and manage multiple projects, while a “Coordinator” at another might provide administrative support. Without context, recruiters and hiring managers can’t tell the difference — and you might get overlooked for roles you’re fully qualified for.
Why you should go beyond titles
- Show what you really bring to the table – Titles can be vague, but your responsibilities and accomplishments highlight your true value.
- Make it easy for recruiters to match you to roles – The clearer your profile, the faster people can see you’re a fit.
- Stand out from the competition – Most people keep things surface-level. You’ll shine if you show specifics.
- Help employers picture you in their job – Details connect the dots between what you’ve done and what they need.
Example: Work History
❌ Before (too vague):
Attorney – Smith & Jones LLP
2019 – 2024
✅ After (detailed and impactful):
Attorney – Smith & Jones LLP
2019 – 2024
- Represented corporate clients in environmental and regulatory matters under the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and state oil & gas regulations.
- Responded to agency information requests and enforcement actions from the EPA, TCEQ, and NMOCD.
- Negotiated settlements and consent orders with landowners and regulators related to soil and groundwater remediation.
- Collaborated with in-house counsel to manage compliance programs and reduce risk exposure.
- Second-chaired multiple hearings and drafted pleadings, motions, and settlement agreements.
See the difference? The “After” version doesn’t just tell you the role — it paints a picture of the scope, responsibilities, and results.
How you can do it
✅ Describe your responsibilities: Go beyond “Attorney” or “Paralegal.” What did you actually handle?
✅ Highlight accomplishments: Did you win a motion, close deals, or streamline a compliance program? Say so.
✅ Use numbers when you can: Recruiters love scale — like “managed 50+ discovery requests” or “negotiated settlements saving $3M in potential exposure.”
✅ Keep it relevant: Focus on the work that aligns with the type of role you want next.
Bottom line
When you’re open to work, don’t let your career be reduced to just a string of titles. Tell your story. Give hiring managers a clear picture of your skills, your impact, and the value you’ll bring to their team. The more complete your work history, the easier it is for the right opportunity to find you.